Binay, Robredo Shared The Vice Presidency For Three Hours

MANILA, Philippines (The Adobo Chronicles, Manila Bureau) – From 9am to 12 Noon on June 30, 2016, the Philippines had two sitting vice presidents – Jejomar Binay and Leni Robredo.

Incoming VP Robredo took her oath of office at 9am that day – three hours ahead of when her 6-year-term was supposed to commence, according to the constitution.

Article 7, Section 4 of the consitution states:

“The President and the Vice-President shall be elected by direct vote of the people for a term of six years which shall begin at noon on the thirtieth day of June next following the day of the election and shall end at noon of the same date, six years thereafter.”

In other words, when Robredo became VP, Binay’s term had not yet ended, so the Philippines had two VPs for a full three hours.

Here’s why this mattered:

Article 7, Section 8 of the constitution says:

“In case of death, permanent disability, removal from office, or resignation of the President, the Vice-President shall become the President to serve the unexpired term.”

There was a legal reason why Rodrigo Duterte waited until exactly 12 noon to take his oath of office as president. The term of NoyNoy Aquino didn’t end till that time.

So, what if something happened to President Aquino between 9am and 12 Noon that day? Who would have assumed the presidency for three hours?